Forth Development Trust

Following the initial announcements of the Coronavirus, Forth Development Trust's 40+ volunteers delivered local contact information for assistance with Food and Prescription deliveries or just a call to 1300 households.

When South Lanarkshire Council produced their own Coronavirus flyer, they delivered this in conjunction with Soapaid (who provided bars of soap) to distribute these to homes with the Wellbeing helpline number.

By this time, Rainbows appeared in windows throughout the area and every home with one on display received a certificate, thanking them for staying safe.

Along with SLC Community Engagement and Clydesdale Food Hub, they arranged to set up a Food Exchange providing free food to those suffering through losing work, being furloughed or simply in need at this time due to self-isolation or shielding. The Hub is dependent on supplies from Clydesdale Hub and the generous donations from our residents.

In conjunction with the Gala Day Committee and St Pauls Church, this week, homes were asked to produce a Scarecrow which is then being used for a Treasure Hunt for the kids. This has been a massive success with 87 homes and families participating.

Despite the annual Gala Day having to be cancelled the dedicated residents of Forth have been out cutting the grass and picking up litter to make sure their village is in pristine condition for Gala Week. These volunteers have been nicknamed ‘The Wombles’ and the staff cannot believe how amazing they have been!

The Hub are working on Activities for the young and old to keep themselves busy during this time. We are very fortunate living in Forth with so many open spaces and lovely walks where it is easy to distance but the weather has also been on our side. Given that families are stuck inside with not much money to spend on entertaining themselves, we are setting them some challenges, such as Cooking with the Kids (Recipes and food provided) and stress packs for those feeling the strain!

This week, our volunteers have delivered a Newsletter, Forth Grapevine to 1300 households and a Treat Pack for 400+ over 70s!

Helping to support the village is exhausting work but the way the community have pulled together in this difficult time makes it all worthwhile!